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It is quite common these days to hear people talking about the creative process. Anyone from graphic designers to app designers legitimately use the phrase to describe what it takes to be successful at what they do. But a long-time area of fascination for me has been the creative process that goes into making timeless music. And when that process is done in the context of a group of people - a band - it’s nothing short of amazing.
I’m immensely honored to be able to present you with this conversation I recorded with Roger Joseph Manning, Jr. formerly of the bands Jellyfish and Imperial Drag. He’s been one of the songwriters I’ve respected the most and I was thrilled to have this chat with him. You’ll hear Roger describe what’s going on under the surface of the creative process for most artists as well as his description of the path he’s walked to become an in-demand musician who’s requested to play on albums for well-known artists and unknown hopefuls alike.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[2:31] The first instrument Roger learned to play - from pots and pans to today [5:18] Hearing all kinds of music and expanding his musical horizons [9:10] Roger’s first jazz lessons and instruction [11:51] Trying to write a song and the drive to become a better songwriter [16:35] Roger’s self-education in experimenting with musical palettes (arranging) [24:40] Did Roger know he was creating something special on past albums? [36:40] The pain behind the creative process for many artists, including him [46:55] Artists Roger would love to play withWriting songs that endure: The goal of every songwriter
When Roger speaks about songwriting, his eyes instantly light up. You can tell that it’s a topic that still captivates him 30 years after the formation of his first band, Jellyfish. As he recounts the first time he tried to write an original song of his own, he admits that it was amateur and awful. He was embarrassed even to ask for constructive criticism. But that didn’t deter him from trying again. Something inside told him that he’d have to fail a lot to find success, and he was willing to put in his reps.
Fast forward to today and the music he created with his Jellyfish bandmates are some of the most timeless songs I know. The heart and soul of the music and the way it connects with the human condition are testaments to the benefit of all those years of hard work. In this conversation, Roger shares openly about his journey into music across the years, and to a deeper knowledge of himself as an artist and a human being. I hope you take the time to listen.
What do AC/DC and the Beatles have in common? Outstanding musical arrangements
One of the most fascinating parts of the conversation I had with Roger about his creative process had to do with the issue of arranging. You’ll hear me bring up AC/DC as an example of straightforward rock and roll, and the comment set Roger up to educate me on the intricacies and nuances of arranging songs in ways that connect with listeners on a deep level. We walk through the styles of the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Black Sabbath, and more as Roger uncovers the details behind what makes a song truly good. It was a delightful journey I’d go on again anytime.
At the time, did Roger realize he was making timeless music?
Roger is quick to say that during the creative process you never know if what you’re after is even going to materialize, much less whether or not it’s going to become one of those timeless melodies that connect with people across generations (Think, “Yesterday” by the Beatles). It’s a process of discovery, one that takes the songwriter and artists as much by surprise as it does anyone else.
But he also says that sometimes, after you’ve finished a song project, you just know it’s right, it’s the way it’s supposed to be. There’s a sense of finality and confidence that flow out of the process and into the way you feel about it after it’s done. Listen to hear Roger explain it as only a skilled and experienced songwriter can.
Timeless songs connect with people on a deeper level
The songs that endure are the ones that connect with us deeply. They speak to our experience, providing us an opportunity to hear an expression that represents what we would have said - or written - if we could have. If you’ve ever heard a song that made you feel that way, you know what I mean.
I find Roger’s music to be those kinds of songs for me. They guide me along my journey, helping me to express my own thoughts and feelings about the pains and joys I’ve experienced along the way. He’s one of the musical greats I have long looked up to and this conversation was something I’ll never forget. I hope you listen.
Resources & People Mentioned
Roger’s solo EP: Glamping Band Roger was in: Imperial Drag Imperial Drag song: “Are you a boy, or are you a girl?” Roger’s previous Band: Jellyfish Jellyfish Album: Spilt Milk Jellyfish Album: Bellybutton Jellyfish song: New Mistake Eric Dover former Jellyfish Bandmate Tim Smith former Jellyfish Bandmate Band: Yes Band: Genesis Band: Mahavishnu Orchestra Artist: Jan Yanhammer Band: Return to Forever Artist: Chick Corea Band: Weather Report Band: XTC Band: Wings Band: 10cc Band: Echo & The Bunnymen Band: The Smiths Band: Devo Band: Thomas Dolby Band: The Beatles Band: The Beach Boys Andy Sturmer - Jellyfish bandmate Artist: Sting Band: The Hollies Band: AC/DC Band: Van Halen Band: Queen Band: Cheap Trick Band: Black Sabbath Band: The Rolling Stones Artist: Duke Ellington Artist: Marvin Gaye Artist: Aretha Franklin Artist: Prince Band: Sly and the Family Stone Artist: Beck Artist: Elvis Costello Artist: Andy Partridge Artist: Morrisey Artist: Pharrell WilliamsConnect with Roger Joseph Manning
Roger on Instagram: @RogerJManningJr Roger on Twitter: @RogerJManningJr “Beautiful Things” with Donnie VieConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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If you were to do a quick Google search for the phrase “stress relief products,” you’d find all kinds of things to help you deal with stress after the fact. That’s because we humans get ourselves into situations that induce stress and then we look for a way to deal with what we’ve created. It's normal. It's everyday life as we know it. But does it have to be?
What if a product existed that could help you avoid many of the stressful situations common to every day? Would that be a stress relief product worth having?
Nate Kelly leads the team at Adero - a company that has created a technology solution that organizes your things so you can save time, reduce stress, and simplify your busy life. It sounds too good to be true, but once you hear how it works you’ll wonder why someone hasn’t created it before now. Listen to learn more about Adero and to hear how Nate’s path has formed him into the exact leader needed in order to make it happen.
What if we could help people never get into stress-inducing situations in the first place?
We’ve all been in situations that instantly produce anxiety or stress. Nate Kelly calls them “chaos” situations. Some examples:
You’ve forgotten your wallet. The car keys have been misplaced. You arrive at work and realize your cell phone is on your bathroom counter.Everyday situations. Nothing to worry about, right? Not to Nate Kelly. When Nate took over as the CEO of Tracker, the company was developing a product to help people find things that were already lost. But he had a bigger vision. He wondered if his team could create a tool to keep things from getting lost in the first place. What if the chaos that ensues from situations of this nature could be eliminated altogether?
Listen to hear how Nate’s questions led to answers like you've never imagined - and how Adero's technology is making a difference by releasing people from the burdens of small oversights.
“Try hard to remember not to screw that up” is NOT a good plan
Prior to the advent of the kind of technology Nate’s team is implementing, the main way to ensure you didn’t forget things was to create a list. But what happens when you forget to make the list? What happens when you lose it?
Smart tags and taglets are the answer Adero provides. These tiny A.I. powered devices are attached to the important items in your life so they can be managed for you. The system can prepare itself according to your schedule to enable your items to remember what you need for you. It’s a system that requires the use of IoT, machine learning, and other elements of the very best of tech - and it’s amazing how it works. You really should hear Nate’s explanation and vision for how Adero will change the world.
There’s no need to blame yourself for forgetting things anymore
How many times have you gone on an important business trip, or even just a drive across town and discovered that you forgot to bring what you needed? Our tendency is to chastise ourselves for being such a dummy. But what if a piece of technology could prevent that situation from ever happening?
Nate envisions a day - coming very soon - when the items you need are able to remind you that you will need them in the near future. Can you picture it? Never having to make a list again? Never forgetting important items - because the items themselves remind you to take them?
More importantly, can you imagine never feeling the panic associated with a high consequence mistake - because the mistake never happened? Nate’s team is making it possible. Find out more by listening to this episode.
Overcoming the anxiety of things through technology
Forgetting to take important items with you seems like a small problem. But look beyond the temporary inconvenience of not having a needed resource to the emotional toll it takes on you. Nate calls it “the anxiety of things,” and ironically, his team is coupling technology WITH things to prevent the anxiety from happening at all.
Nate foresees the Adero platform becoming one that allows every THING in your life to worry about YOU, preparing everything in your life for your use and convenience. Your things will be taking care of you, instead of you having to care for them. It’s an incredible solution to everyday problems, and it’s on the horizon. Nate’s team is making sure that’s the case.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:14] Who is Nate Kelly and how the Adero path has been unpredictable [3:40] Helping people never get into unprepared moments [10:25] How the Adero system works using smart tags and intelligent containers [14:28] The most common uses for the Adero solution - 4 personas [18:01] Taking over the company a week before natural disasters hit [21:59] Big changes in a new organization and how Nate rallied the troops [24:18] Instilling the feeling of ownership into the Adero team [30:50] Nate’s unconventional path: from a religious cult to leading a tech company [36:10] Recalibrating his life to help others optimize mental health and manage stress [38:41] The structure of Nate’s day that enables him to do the job he does [42:28] Adero’s future as Nate sees itResources & People Mentioned
Tesla Sonos BOOK: Principles - http://a.co/d/1uuzdpO BOOK: The Hard Thing About Hard Things : http://a.co/d/9yiqCsu Sony Ericsson Microsoft The Move CultConnect with Nate Kelly
Adero Adero on Twitter: https://twitter.com/aderoConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
Apple Podcasts, Otto Radio, Player FM, Soundcloud, or SpotifyShow notes by
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As human beings, we drastically underestimate the power of change. It’s because we derive comfort from routine and habit. It feels safe, secure, and comfortable. Change is the exact opposite, it DEMANDS that we step outside of what is normal for us and do different things.
My guest on this episode of Unconventional Genius is Beth Comstock. She’s one of the most powerful women in the business world right now and has recently released an amazing book that recounts her transformation from a shy publicist to the first woman Vice-Chair at General Electric. Beth knows about the power of change because she’s leaned into it all her life. In fact, her mother used to ask her, “Why do you always have to make things so hard?” Beth says it was because she wanted to take on her own weaknesses and fears to become something more. Beth is truly one of the most impressive people I’ve ever spoken with.
I spoke with Beth at the historic Orpheum Theater in downtown Los Angeles and she shared her insights on courage, overcoming the status quo, encouraging creativity, the power of change, and the results that come from true organizational change. I hope you’ll listen to this engaging conversation.
We are taught NOT to be creative - but Beth says we must learn to overcome it
In her own words, Beth Comstock says she grew up as a classic “good girl,” but when she stepped into the working world a rebel emerged - but not in the classic “buck the system” way you might think of. She simply believed there was a better way of doing things and she couldn’t hold it in.
Looking back, she can see that the typical educational system as well as the way society has been structured has made us dependent on knowing things so that we can feel like we are in control of them. To move into a context of change causes us to feel untethered, like we have no firm footing.
Beth says it’s important that we learn to develop the belief that we can figure it out - whatever “it” may be. It’s that attitude that harnesses the power of change. It moves us beyond convention to unlock the unconventional genius that resides in all of us.
Courage comes from making yourself take small, everyday steps forward
From the time she was young, Beth pushed herself. She wanted to be stronger than the things she was afraid of. But first, she had to admit that it WAS her fear that was holding her back. None of us like to admit we are afraid, but she says it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s natural - but it’s equally natural for human beings to want to overcome fear.
As an adult, Beth has seen the benefit of conquering her fears step by step throughout life. It’s the resolve to face fear, question it, and push into it instead of retreating from it. She calls it “everyday courage.” She’s taken this life lesson into her leadership. Applying her “small-steps” approach to teams has empowered many people to find the courage to unleash their own creativity.
Listen to hear how Beth has led ground-breaking initiatives, pioneered new ways of approaching problems, and has fostered creativity in teams that goes beyond the normal “creative sessions” often touted in business circles.
The power of change is yours when you think into the future and take action
In her book, “Imagine It Forward,” Beth outlines what she refers to as her “Imagine It Forward” framework - a way individuals and teams can systematically address barriers to creativity, innovation, and obstacles to scaling. I particularly enjoyed a number of the strategies she outlines in the framework. They themselves are creative ways of thinking about problems or challenges to enable new insights and perspectives.
The overall framework is based on the belief that looking into the future, imaging what it could be, is one of the most powerful ways of opening minds to possibilities. She points out that transforming the mindset and culture of a company is messy and without any kind of easy checklist. She believes the challenge calls for the courage to defy convention, go around corporate gatekeepers when necessary, and reinvent what is possible.
If you’re also tired of being told “it can’t be done,” you’ll enjoy Beth’s book and this conversation.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[0:35] Beth Comstock, one of the most impressive people I’ve ever talked with [2:38] How we are trained to NOT be creative, and how we can overcome it [6:30] How Beth teaches people to break out of their shell and become more imaginative [14:32] Getting into the habit of overcoming fear and building courage [22:05] The purpose of Beth’s “Imagine It Forward” creative problem solving strategy [29:41] Overcoming the power of fear - in herself, team members, and customers [32:40] Beth’s hopes for the impact of the book [35:20] Advice for parents who are raising daughters: instill confidence in themResources & People Mentioned
BOOK: Great By Choice - http://a.co/d/7RMKo6c Ecomagination : GE’s Cleantech effort - https://www.ge.com/reports/ecomagination-ten-years-later-proving-efficiency-economics-go-hand-hand/ Uber : https://www.uber.com/Connect with Beth Comstock
Beth’s website: https://www.bethcomstock.info/ Connect with Beth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethjcomstock/ Follow Beth on Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethcomstock Follow Beth on Instagram: https://www.bethcomstock.info/ Beth’s book: Imagine It Forward - http://a.co/d/eX99PwWConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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On this episode of Unconventional Genius, I talk with Andrew Yang about The Freedom Dividend and the future of America. Andrew is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of Venture for America, a national entrepreneurship fellowship that has helped create over 3,000 jobs in major cities across the United States.
He is also running for president in 2020, with a key component of his platform being the creation of a universal basic income. During our conversation, Andrew shares his vision for the future and I ask questions submitted by the Unconventional Genius community through Facebook.
How the freedom dividend could help people
Andrew explains that his plan for providing a universal basic income, known as The Freedom Dividend, was born out of the inability of the U.S. job market to keep up with technology. He says that robots are taking jobs from people at an alarming rate and our ability to adapt hasn’t kept pace.
Rather than demotivating people to work, Andrew argues that The Freedom Dividend will provide a jumpstart to those working underpaying jobs. He also says it will give people the opportunity to save more. He believes that this solution is a more viable option than trying to retrain workers.
Getting to know Andrew Yang through your questions
During this episode, I do something I’ve never done before. I let you ask the questions. Listeners submitted questions for Andrew on Facebook. He tackles these challenging questions and shares his platform and ideologies.
Many of the questions submitted dealt with Andrew’s policy and platform. He is running as a Democrat with very different views and policies than the current administration. He says, “Our goal is to try to get (Trump) out of office as fast as possible while we still have a functional government.”
Andrew Yang’s proposed Presidential platform and policies
Andrew Yang is running for President because he believes he can unite the country and bring about positive change. He argues that he isn’t a lifetime politician, but rather an entrepreneur who understands business and the economy.
During our conversation, Andrew shares how he plans to fund The Freedom Dividend. One concern is that taxes might increase. How do you pay for everyone to get $1,000 a month? Listen to this episode to find out how he intends to pay for a universal basic income.
The plan to help people adapt to the future
Andrew proposes a radical shift in both mindset and action that he feels is critical for the country to move forward. His approach is formed from the belief that job creation will not outpace the massive impending job loss due to automation. Andrew discusses the ways he would address the nation’s challenges during this interview.
Can Andrew change the mindset of people quickly enough to adapt to the times? Andrew says, “That is the challenge. Things are changing very quickly. We have to rise to that challenge. If we fail in that, then we will witness the disintegration of our country.”
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[0:51] Introduction of 2020 Presidential Candidate Andrew Yang [2:00] Why Andrew Yang thinks that the job market can’t keep up with technology [5:21] Does the Freedom Dividend demotivate people to work hard and earn their own money? [7:04] Educating people to learn how to save money and adapt in a changing world [11:49] What is the singular change needed in the government in order to unite our country? [13:04] Andrew Yang talks about his foreign policy [14:05] What is his biggest strength and greatest challenge? [15:06] Where is the $1,000 per month for The Freedom Dividend coming from? Will taxes go up? [15:55] How can Andrew get better results than the current administration? [17:44] Is creating basic income for everyone the same things as socialism? [18:55] How would Andrew Yang handle voter suppression? [20:10] What would the regulatory environment look like under Andrew’s presidency? [20:57] The positives and negatives of the future of AI and how it has and will affect the job market [23:15] How to help people change their minds and prepare for the futureConnect with Guest Name
Andrew YangConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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The Unconventional Genius podcast welcomes guest Inbal Etgar, Creative Director at frog Design, to discuss the importance of design. Inbal leads the product development team of mechanical engineers and industrial designers at frog, which has been in business for over 50 years. During our conversation, Inbal talks about her role at frog, how they help companies succeed and what she sees for the future of design.
frog Design has played an instrumental role in many well-known companies and products. They have worked with companies like GE, Google, and Heatworks. Most notably, frog helped strategize and create Apple’s design language called Snow White for their line of computers. Hear Inbal recount the opportunities she has had to leverage the importance of design with these major companies.
The benefit of design for Heatworks
During our conversation, Inbal details the work that she and her team has done for Heatworks. Heatworks is also a client that I have worked with and I know firsthand that they are an innovative company with beautiful design. frog helped Heatworks design one of the most unique countertop dishwashers on the market today.
The Model 3 by Heatworks is a countertop dishwasher that uses a completely new way to heat water. By developing this type of technology, Heatworks was able to use their water-heating method in different applications, including the dishwasher. During our interview, Inbal shares her experience working with Heatworks to not only help with product design, but also with their overall branding.
Inbal Etgar’s journey into industrial design
Inbal shares with me her journey to becoming the creative director at frog. Starting out as a painter and sculptor, she had a passion to shape her environment. A family friend, who was an industrial engineer, invited her to help build some models which opened her eyes to the professional opportunities that industrial design held.
Inbal says that industrial design is the intersection of engineering and plastic arts. She appreciates the constraints of the discipline and the opportunity to redefine visual norms.
Inbal has traveled through Europe and China and experienced the different aspects of industrial design. She landed in the United States just before the release of the first iPhone and Fitbit. Inbal has achieved the rare privilege of experiencing the confluence of passion and skill.
The acceleration of progress and how it is impacting design.
Is design experiencing benefit from the acceleration of progress? Inbal says design is a key factor in progress and innovation but is only successful when a company has a solid foundation. She suggests that companies can over-index on design and fail to actually solve a problem for businesses and consumers.
Inbal says, “Design starts in the boardroom.” You can have a really beautiful design but if you don’t have clarity about how you are going to ensure longevity, you will struggle to deliver over time. Hear more insight from Inbal’s unique experience and perspective during this episode of Unconventional Genius.
The importance of design and its connection to failure
“Success lives where tolerance for failure exists.” Inbal stresses the importance of being willing to fail. Data and research help you better understand how to solve problems, but sometimes you have to follow intuition. Inbal cites Steve Jobs as a great example of someone who took risks and failed but who bounced back to experience unprecedented success.
During this interview, Inbal shares her vision for the future of design. She believes that the importance of design is understood better than ever before. She believes that companies gain an advantage in creating a product and solving a problem by having a designer at the table. Listen to this episode of the Unconventional Podcast to hear more from Inbal Etgar.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:02] Inbal Etgar explains how frog Design helps companies overcome business challenges [4:37] How design can be a really powerful tool in helping a company achieve their goals [8:11] Inbal explains how they helped Heatworks design their brand [11:08] Thinking outside the box in designing a dishwasher for Heatworks [14:17] The background and experience that led Inbal Etgar to become a designer [20:20] How the acceleration of progress and growth impacts the industrial design industry [25:50] The balance of solving obvious problems with educating consumers about problems they didn’t know they even had [30:00] How design and development help uncover truth for companies [32:09] What bad design drives Inbal Etgar [36:38] Are chopsticks better than forks? Considering history and culture in design. [41:40] Applying lean method prototyping approaches to design [43:47] The future and the role of design according to Inbal EtgarResources & People Mentioned
HeatworksConnect with Inbal Etgar
Inbal EtgarConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
Apple Podcasts, Otto Radio, Player FM, Soundcloud, or Spotify -
This week on Unconventional Genius, I talk with Stuart Lombard, Founder and CEO of Ecobee about how he led his company to overcome adversity to become the smart thermostat leader. Even what sometimes seems like a victory in business can turn in to an unexpected setback. It’s not about the challenges but how you respond to them that matter.
Stuart Lombard is serious about saving energy. Even with no background in the energy sector and no experience in consumer electronics, Stuart set out to create a better way to manage energy in the home. “When we started people were like ‘Why are you doing thermostats? That’s the stupidest idea ever!’” With a degree in applied mathematics and a background in leading businesses, he started a company that produced one of the first connected thermostats.
How a potential setback set the course for continued success
Before the launch of Ecobee, thermostats were programmable, but not wifi connected. In 2009, Stuart led Ecobee to raise capital, secure investors, and release the first connected thermostat to market. It was a huge success. However, 2 years later NEST introduced their cheaper and more feature-rich thermostat. What could’ve been a devastating setback turned into be a defining moment for the company.
How you respond when unforeseen trouble arises can make or break your company. For Stuart Lombard, even a potentially crippling challenge couldn’t stop his optimism or passion for creating a great product. Instead of giving up, the Ecobee team dug in and found a way to create the next best product that would put them back on top of the connected thermostat market.
How Apple set the expectation for all consumer electronics
Even though they don’t make thermostats, Apple has set the expectations for all consumer electronics when it comes to form and function. This has led Stuart Lombard and his team to pursue excellence and innovation. During our conversation, Stuart shares five competitive pillars that Ecobee strives to win at with every product.
One key to success that Stuart shares is the importance of slowing down. For startup companies, everything is urgent. However, when you are first developing a product you have to take your time and consider every detail. Once you’ve solidified the actual product, then you can speed up. Knowing the rhythm of when to slow down and when to push forward is critical.
The mission that propels Ecobee
Ecobee's mission is greater than creating a great consumer product. It is about making the world a better place and helping people reduce their carbon footprint. They have a program that allows customers to anonymize their data and share it for research purposes. This program helps Ecobee make life better and more efficient through their products. They are also partnering with utility companies to help them serve their customers.
I ask Stuart Lombard about the advantages and disadvantages of running a tech company in Toronto. He shares that there is a wealth of talent in Toronto, with less competition than Silicon Valley. The cost of living and quality of life are also better. Access to capital and quality of the teams continues to raise the level of opportunity for Ecobee.
What the future holds for Ecobee
Ecobee continues to innovate by bringing new and improved products to market. The newest is the Switch Plus, which is a wifi connected light switch. It has occupancy detection so it will turn on the lights in a dark hallway. It will also turn off lights for you. Listen as Stuart shares about how their light switch solves common problems in the home.
10 years into the business and Stuart Lombard says he is as excited as ever about the opportunities ahead for Ecobee. They are continuing to research and learn the needs of customers. He believes the connected home will be the next computing platform. With all the adversity that Ecobee and Stuart Lombard has faced, they have been able to overcome and take their place at the top of the smart thermostat industry.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:27] Introduction of Stuart Lombard, Founder and CEO of Ecobee [3:57] How Stuart turned belief in hard work and potential into launching a successful company [5:54] How to do you build optimism and drive into a company [10:15] After taking time to build a better thermostat, Ecobee released a product that was hugely successful [12:52] How Ecobee works with utilities [15:00] The mission of Ecobee is larger than just creating a consumer product [16:45] The advantages and disadvantages of running a tech business in Toronto [19:15] The product for the family that can’t remember to turn off the lights [21:15] What’s in store for the future of Ecobee? [23:05] How the room sensor feature works to measure and adjust temperature in different rooms [25:07] Stuart Lombard gives his final word about the future of EcobeeResources & People Mentioned
EcobeeConnect with Guest Name
Stuart LombardConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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On this episode of Unconventional Genius, I talk with Gene Marks, author, speaker, and President of the Marks Group, about the top technology trends in business. Gene talks to entrepreneurs all around the country about the issues that impact growth and success. During this conversation, we discuss several trends in business that can improve your company.
3 technologies that will impact your business this year
Gene Marks is not only a marketing genius, but he is also a CPA by trade. Because of his background, he likes to talk with business owners about ways to improve cash flow. Doing so will help increase profits, which can be funneled back into the business, fueling growth. Gene shares with me some ways to track and improve cash flow by leveraging technology.
When thinking about the impact of technology trends on your business, Gene Marks says that you have to consider both long-term and short-term impact. One of the most important trends in technology is the use of a CRM system. This type of platform acts as a one-stop shop for all the data in your company. Listen as Mark talks about different CRM providers and the benefits they can offer your company.
How to pick the right tools for your company
Along with the various demands of running a company, there is an overwhelming amount of technology that business owners can choose from. While many of these resources are helpful, they can also become expensive and cumbersome. How does a business owner know which platforms are the best?
Gene Marks recommends finding a company that provides multiple platforms so that you have consistency and integration. Instead of using different companies for various applications, he says picking one company that provides multiple platforms will decrease some of the confusion and expense. Listen as Mark shares some of the best integrated suites you should consider using in your company.
Attracting and keeping millennial talent
Millennial workers are incredibly innovative and talented young individuals that are now entering the workforce. One of the challenges of leading a company is determining how to attract and keep that talent. During our conversation, Gene shares with me some of the technology trends and benefits that companies are using to appeal to potential millennial employees.
One trend that Gene highlights is unlimited time off. He suggests that millennials want more mobility and independence in their careers. Offering unlimited time-off has proven to be attractive to potential hires. However, you might be surprised by the amount of vacation used by employees at companies that have implemented unlimited time off.
The politics that are impacting technology trends in business
In the last few years, there has been a major shift in politics. With a Republican congress and the current presidential administration, there is some uncertainty as to what policies might change in the near future. Gene says “The smartest business people I meet put that aside and focus on the facts.”
It is critical for business leaders to focus on the things that they have control over while resisting the temptation of fear and worry stirred by politics. Gene discusses some of the major policies that might impact businesses and how to navigate those changes. Listen to this episode to hear his advice on that and much more.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[0:50] Introduction of Gene Marks, President of The Marks Group and author, speaker and consultant [1:40] Increasing cash flow by analyzing real-time data through cloud-based applications [3:50] The three technologies that should be on your company’s radar in the next year [6:59] How do you choose which tools and resources you need for your company [11:17] The future of technology and how it will impact businesses [15:06] Tools and technologies for finding and motivating millennials [20:04] Political, technological, economic and management trends for the future [26:38] Gene encourages business owners to focus on facts in regard to politicsResources & People Mentioned
The Marks GroupConnect with Gene Marks
Gene MarksConnect With Max Borges
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On this week’s episode of Unconventional Genius, I talk with Zoli Honig, Founder and COO of Waivecar, about how he is building a truly free car-sharing program. By harnessing advertising capital, Zoli is seeing his dream of transporting people from place to place for free become a reality. He shares with me how he got his start in business and some of the keys to being a successful entrepreneur.
Zoli’s story is one of both hard work and a little bit of luck. He has proven that even though some ideas don’t seem great at first, with a little bit of imagination and a lot of time and energy, you can create an industry-transforming business. During this episode, you’ll hear Zoli’s story and what he’s learned along the way.
Don’t let fear cause your good idea to go to waste
Zoli Honig’s technological aptitude began when he was a teenager. He turned his skills into a successful business idea while in college. Zoli noticed that the educational platform used by most colleges and universities was inefficient and difficult to use. He decided to build a better application that could be used by primary schools as well as post-secondary institutions.
Along the way, Zoli learned several important lessons that he shares with me. One of the best pieces of advice he gives during our conversation is about being willing to share your ideas. Zoli says, “A lot of people assume that their idea is going to be stolen, so they don’t tell anyone. It’s not about the idea, it’s about the execution.”
A little more talk can lead to a lot more action
Leveraging your network and having strategic conversations can help open new doors of opportunity that can take your company or idea to the next level. Zoli shares how his willingness to talk with someone he didn’t know led to a meeting with the head of Hyundai ventures. That conversation was the catalyst for the largest partnership with Waivecar.
Waivecar is able to provide a free car-sharing program to consumers through advertising subsidies. In order for the business model to work, major advertisers needed a large volume of cars on the road before they were willing to buy ad space. Through a chance encounter, Zoli was able to get the idea in front of Hyundai ventures who not only bought the ad space but also provided the fleet of cars for the free car sharing program.
Thinking outside the box can open up new opportunities
The partnership with Hyundai is mutually beneficial, providing the ultimate test drive for potential buyers of a Hyundai while transporting Waivecar users. A free car-sharing program is not a traditional advertising avenue a car company might typically consider. However, because Zoli was willing to pursue his dream and work hard, he has been able to create a unique platform that serves both companies.
The stated goal of Waivecar is to provide transportation at no cost for the consumer. Instead of charging customers, Waivecar is committed to using advertising money to generate revenue. This model of being a free car-sharing program sets Waivecar apart from all other ride-sharing platforms.
Taking care of yourself helps you take care of your company
Zuli shares the importance of maintaining good physical health. Staying in shape makes you more productive, giving you more energy and focus. This allows you to more effectively pour into the business. However, keeping a routine of health takes discipline.
Zuli gives great advice for staying motivated while investing in your health. He encourages setting short-term goals so that you can see incremental success. Healthy living will ultimately contribute to greater success in all areas of life. Listen to this episode of Unconventional Genius to hear about that and much more.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[2:11] Introduction of Zoli Honig, Founder and CEO of Waivecar a free car-sharing program [5:45] Solving the inefficiencies of an educational platform by building a better product [10:48] Leveraging your network to get in front of the right people to sell your product [12:52] Don’t allow the fear of your idea being stolen to keep you from sharing it [14:29] Zoli Honig talks about what Waivecar is, how he started it and how it works [18:18] If you want to try out Waivear, go to the website and use promo code VIP [20:00] Advertising on the cars is a great value because the advertisements are dynamic [24:34] Solving the problem of volume through a partnership with a major car company [30:05] How the partnership between Waivecar and Hyundai is mutually beneficial [36:15] The next step of growth for Waivecar and the challenges that have come up [45:55] Zoli explains the importance of health and balancing the demands of work and life [51:10] Staying motivated with the reward of achieving short-term goals [54:58] Zoli shares his ultimate goal in life and businessResources & People Mentioned
WaivecarConnect with Guest Name
Zoli HonigConnect With Max Borges
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Enis Hulli is on a mission to provide funding for startups. His company, 500 Startups Istanbul is looking for the best possible companies to invest money in so that those companies can achieve success while providing premium returns. However, landing an investment deal with 500 Startups Istanbul is far from easy. Listen to this episode of Unconventional Genius to hear how Enis Hulli is leading 500 Startups to make a difference in the lives of entrepreneurs around the world.
The global impact of entrepreneurship
Silicon Valley may be geographically located in the U.S., but it’s a truly international community. A study released by the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP), a non-partisan organization which does research on trade and immigration, found that over half of $1 billion of funding for startups are awarded to companies founded by immigrants. Collectively, these companies are worth $168 billion and employ over 33,000 people.
“Entrepreneurship is all about passion and perseverance, and immigrant entrepreneurs are the most hungry for success,” adds Hulli. “That’s why many of the big companies in the U.S. are built by immigrant entrepreneurs. 500 Startups launched microfunds in countries like Turkey, Canada, Japan, and Mexico to find these entrepreneurs and become the bridge connecting them to Silicon Valley.”
The opportunities and challenges of startups outside the U.S.
Enis Hulli says that while Silicon Valley is a hub of business and entrepreneurship, not every startup wants to move to the U.S. In fact, many companies outside of the United States want to provide products and services that can help their developing countries. 500 Startups Istanbul was started to help provide funding for startups like these.
Hulli says, “An entrepreneur should go wherever the biggest market is, whether that is India, China, Africa or Europe,” he says. “That’s why our bigger vision is to help make Istanbul the startup hub of the region. Istanbul is a great place to build a product and conduct angel tests with different segments at scale."
The selective process of providing funding for startups
While 500 Startups Istanbul’s goal is to invest in businesses, not everyone who seeks an investment will get one. It is notoriously difficult to strike a deal with Startups 500. The company’s website boasts that “it’s tougher to get into 500 Startups than Harvard, MIT or Stanford.” Entrepreneurs who meet with Hulli will find he is just as selective. Of 2,500 deals presented by entrepreneurs and executives with early-stage companies, only 25 have struck deals with 500 Startups Istanbul.
“Fundraising is a priority for us, but even more critical is managing that capital and investing it wisely,” says Hulli. “Generating good returns is vital can be a turning point in building our ecosystem and attracting investor appetite."
What is the difference between a Red Ocean and a Blue Ocean company?
There are different kinds of companies seeking funding for a startup company. Enis Hulli says that some entrepreneurs are entering into an established market with lots of competition. Those companies are called Red Ocean. Other companies, called Blue Ocean are trying to create a new market or product category.
Regarding Blue Ocean companies, Hulli says, “Here we are taking a bigger market risk, but these companies can become a category or even market creators, and these are the exciting ones.” Listen as Enis Hulli gives advice for earning investments whether you have a Red or Blue Ocean company during our conversation on Unconventional Genius.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[2:21] Max introduces guest Enis Hulli, Associate Partner at 500 Startups Istanbul [3:36] How 500 startups is making an impact in developing countries [4:58] Enis explains why many of the most successful American startups were founded by immigrants [8:29] The unique opportunities and challenges for companies outside of the U.S. [13:38] 500 Startups Istanbul vision for the future [15:33] Keys that make a business stand out for 500 Startups Istanbul to invest [17:17] Max explains the difference between Red Ocean and Blue Ocean companies [18:20] How Enis got into venture capitalismResources & People Mentioned
500 Startups IstanbulConnect with Guest Name
Ennis HulliConnect With Max Borges
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On this episode of Unconventional Genius, I talk with Mark Palfreeman, CEO of Nixplay about the power of doing hard things. NIxplay was founded in 2007 with a vision to use technology to connect people in a meaningful way. The company accomplishes this vision through their digital photo sharing service by which families can access and share pictures over the cloud.
During our conversation, Mark shares how the military and the movie business prepared him to be a CEO of a successful tech company. He explains how he started the company and the approach to business that sets Nixplay apart. Listen now to be inspired by this Unconventional Genius
Sometimes you just have to figure it out
There is a temptation to wait until you have everything figured out before starting something new. Mark Palfreeman didn’t do that. He started his business without knowing certain key aspects of the business. However, he committed himself to doing hard things in order to figure out how to run the business.
One of the ways that Mark made up the learning gap was by surrounding himself with talented people and watching them collaborate to create great work. The time invested in putting together the right team helped him to be able to create an excellent product. Listen as Mark explains the genesis of Nixplay and the lessons he has learned while leading the company.
The key to success in business lies in core-competencies
Mark began his business by considering the opportunity for longevity. By thinking about how he can provide a meaningful service to the consumer, he has built something he both believes in and in which he can continually invest himself. Mark also shares the importance of discovering the right opportunity before attempting to launch a business
The success of a business can be found in how core-competencies are managed. Anything that is considered a core-competency in your business should be monitored closely by the top leadership. There were several aspects of his business that Mark had to closely oversee himself. Doing so safeguarded the company from the potential drift in those key areas.
How Nixplay sets itself apart
Because Nixplay is primarily an online business, customer satisfaction is of utmost importance. The impact of customer reviews cannot be overstated. Mark says that by making customer service a priority, that aspect of the business has been transformed from a cost center into a profit generator.
It’s been said that content is king. This is certainly true for Nixplay. Mark Palfreeman says, “As long as you own the copyright and I can provide a service to you, then I can be relevant to you and it’s hard for people to get in the way of that.” Focusing on providing a service where users own the content has given the company long-term value to its customers.
How doing hard things can change your life
During my conversation with Mark Palfreeman, I heard him talk about how he chose to do hard things in order to achieve his goals. He didn’t let fear or doubt keep him from trying to do something he thought was impossible. Mark’s attitude is a contributing factor to his success. He urges other leaders to have the courage stretch beyond themselves to accomplish their big vision.
Leaders should also be on a constant mission of truth-discovery within their companies. Settling for the status quo will, at best, lead to mediocrity. Listen to my conversation with Mark Palfreeman on this episode of Unconventional Genius and be inspired to do hard things that can lead to greater success in your life.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[2:48] Introduction of Mark Pelfreeman, CEO of Nixplay, a digital photo sharing service [6:08] How his time in the film industry inspired Mark to develop Nixplay and how it prepared him to lead a company [10:55} Timing is everything when taking the first step to start a company [14:12} Success was a surprise for Mark in the beginning, so he continued to prepare for the worst [18:20] Leaders should closely monitor any area of core-competency within the company [22:39] The ways Mark Pelfreeman is leveraging Amazon to grow Nixplay [26:24] How the business to business side of Nixplay solved a problem for companies [34:00] Growth for Nixplay on both the consumer and B2B side [38:30] Attempting hard things and doing what you didn’t think you could do has driven Mark’s success [46:38] The power of a positive attitude and self-belief [49:44] Staying sharp as a leader requires focus, discipline and good relationships [54:00] Mark’s collection of classic literature and which ones have impacted him the most [58:00] The culture of openness and authenticity within a company can help a company know the truth and then grow [1:02:00] Key decisions should be made with as much information as possible [1:07:18] Having the courage to cut your losses when you’ve made a misstep [1:09:16] The vision and future of NixplayResources & People Mentioned
NixplayConnect with Guest Name
Mark PalfreemanConnect With Max Borges
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On this episode of Unconventional Genius, I talk with Andrew Mok, CMO of Turo about how his company is reinventing the car rental industry. Turo is a peer-to-peer car sharing platform where users can list their personal vehicles for people to rent. During our conversation, Andrew shares how the company is not only changing the way people rent cars, but is also redefining car ownership.
Drive the car you always wanted
Unlike traditional car rental companies, Turo lets you pick the car you want to drive. From brand new electric cars to classic muscle cars, you can find almost any vehicle you can imagine. Andrew Mok says, “From A3 to Z4 you’ll find every car you want.”
The mission of Turo is to put the world’s 1 billion cars to better use. There are currently 230,000 cars available for rent on the platform. Because it is peer-to-peer sharing, prices run significantly cheaper than a traditional rental. Hear Andrew Mok talk about how the Turo platform works and how they are accomplishing their mission during this conversation.
Changing the economics of car ownership
Andrew Mok shares how Turo regulates itself through user activity. He explains how each market has a different supply and demand model that determines the pricing of the cars available for rent. Rare, in-demand cars create what Andrew calls a “market-balancing opportunity” for users.
Turo is contributing to the long-term value of cars by creating a shared ownership experience. Cars are not only expensive, but they are generally driven only one hour a day. Instead of the car being a waste of valuable resources, it can be turned into a lucrative investment asset.
Growing a global car rental community
Any technology company that wants to grow must have an eye toward the future. Turo is doing just that by investing in their community of users. Andrew Mok says that the goal is to empower users with data. To that end, several new tools and features are being developed to increase the earning potential of those renting out their vehicle.
Andrew also says that Turo is looking to expand to more markets. Their current focus is in international markets. Listen as he shares their unique approach to global expansion and how it is helping them fulfill their mission.
How Turo’s success has been challenged
Reinventing the car rental industry has not come without a price. Andrew shares with me some of the challenges Turo has experienced while creating such a drastic change in the marketplace. Much like the backlash that Uber and Lyft experienced from Taxi companies, Turo is experiencing pressure from traditional rental companies.
Turo is innovating and creating a more customer-focused business model. Yet there are those who feel threatened by this progress. The resolve that Andrew shares with me during this interview is encouraging and inspiring. Don’t miss this episode of Unconventional Genius.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[2:23] Andrew Mok, CMO of Turo, gives an overview of his company Turo [4:41} Max asks Andrew how the Turo platform manages safety and security [7:38] The customer base of Turo for both listing and renting [9:39] What the data reveals about the types of cars in demand in different markets [12:34] How Turo is reinventing the economics of car ownership [16:40] Andrew Mok talks about the variety of cars available for rent [21:08] Max asks Andrew about the challenges the company is facing [29:08] What the future holds for the growth of TuroResources & People Mentioned
TuroConnect with Guest Name
Andrew MokConnect With Max Borges
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On today’s episode of Unconventional Genius, I talk with Andy Rachleff, President and CEO of Wealthfront about the advantages of automated investing. Wealthfront is the leading automated planning and investment company in the financial industry. Utilizing sophisticated software and a client-first approach, Wealthfront makes investing easier and more affordable.
During my conversation with Andy Rachleff, you’ll hear how Wealthfront is maximizing the value of automated investing. You will also get an inside peek into how he leads this innovative company.
What makes automated investing better?
While the older generation of investors might prefer getting their financial advice from another person, the younger generation approaches investing differently. Automated investing offers several benefits for younger investors. Andy Rachleff says one common misconception about Wealthfront is that they are trying to steal clients from more traditional firms.
In reality, automated investing appeals to a completely different clientele that is often younger and still in the wealth accumulation phase of life. Hear about the distinctions of automated investing and how it can be a more viable option for many investors during this episode of Unconventional Genius.
Should you choose the local zoo or automated investing?
According to Andy Rachleff, a group of chimpanzees may have a better chance at picking a winning portfolio than a financial advisor. But instead of going to the local zoo to find your next financial advisor you might give automated investing a try.
The financial industry isn’t designed to be fair. Many large companies require you to invest millions of dollars in order to qualify for a financial advisor. Even then there is little guarantee that they will make the best choices. As Andy explains, Wealthfront is utilizing automated investing to even the playing field.
Quoting Wealthfront’s Chief Investment Officer Burt Malkiel, Andy says, “Since you can’t outperform the market, don’t try.” That is why Wealthfront uses time-tested, academically proven models to invest in low-cost index funds. Doing so with automated investing removes the potential for human judgment and error, and allows invested money to grow in spite of market volatility.
3 factors to help you maximize your return on investment
Andy Rachleff explains that there are three factors you should consider when planning your investment portfolio. These 3 considerations will help you maximize your return on investment and are the same three factors that Wealthfront focuses on when advising clients.
Automated investing keeps these three factors at the forefront of your investment strategy. Listen to my conversation with Andy Rachleff to hear about these important 3 factors and how Wealthfront leverages software to prioritize them.
The growth and evolution of automated investing
During our conversation, Andy shares about what it takes to run a successful automated investing company. He shares the difficulties of prioritizing his time and maintaining a clear vision for the company.
Wealthfront currently manages over $10.5 billion in investments with over 200,000 clients. As the company continues to grow, the services available to clients will continue to grow and evolve. Hear all about that and more on this week’s episode of Unconventional Genius.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[2:04] Andy Rachleff on what makes Wealthfront the premiere automated investing resource [6:30] How Wealthfront chooses investments better than human financial advisors [9:05] The three factors that will help you maximize your return on investments [10:40} Andy Rachleff explains how tax loss harvesting can lower your tax liability [17:37] The services that make Wealthfront such a valuable resource for investors [20:33] Wealthfront’s automated investing portfolio diversification strategy [24:21] How the growth of Wealthfront has allowed them to better serve their customers [27:11] Andy Ratchleff’s journey in starting and leading a growing company [33:42} How Wealthfront’s approach to financial planning sets them apart [37:38] Andy Ratchleff’s priorities and how he manages his time as a CEOResources & People Mentioned
WealthfrontConnect with Andy Rachleff
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachleffConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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One of the things I love about working in the Consumer Technology industry is the opportunity I have to hear how companies are doing product research and bringing new tech to market. My guest, today, Deena Ghazarian is an especially delightful person to talk to about those topics because she is a vital part of the TargetPath team - an accelerator that helps tech startups and established technology companies get started, scale, and become successful faster.
One of the things I love about working in the Consumer Technology industry is the opportunity I have to learn how companies are doing product research and bringing new technologies to market. My guest on this episode is Deena Ghazarian, an especially delightful person to talk to about those topics because she is a vital part of the TargetPath team - an accelerator that helps tech startups get started, scale, and become successful faster.
In this conversation Deena and I were able to talk about a number of fascinating topics such as how the TargetPath team has been on the front lines of the “smart city” movement, helping the city of New York establish and implement its smart city program. We also spoke about innovative ways startups and established tech companies alike are using Kickstarter and Amazon to do product research and set their companies up for success.
Deena is a smart, accomplished professional who brings years of experience to the consumer tech industry. I know you’re going to benefit from hearing what she shares on this episode.
This company is on the leading edge of implementing smart city tech in the 5 boroughs of New York CityOne of the exciting tech projects Deena and the TargetPath team has been involved in lately is the LinkNYC project. They’ve helped remove every payphone in the city with gleaming silver kiosks (called “Links) that contain Wi-Fi beacons, mobile device chargers, and informational tablets for users. The goal is to have at least 4,550 of these units spread across the five boroughs by the year 2020.
Deena says consumer tech is not just about headphones and smart speakers, it’s also about connecting consumers of city services to those services in ways that are beneficial and efficient. It’s an amazing project and a look into the future of what consumer tech companies will be working on more and more as we move forward.
Equipping Sol Republic to go from $0 to $65M in just over 3 yearsYou may have seen one of the “Soundtrack of Life” video clips featuring Olympic champion Michael Phelps. They were created by a headphone brand called Sol Republic. The company was founded in 2011 and Deena and the TargetPath team were instrumental in the product research and analysis, product development, launch, and management of the brand from the beginning. Today Sol Republic is one of the fastest growing audio brands in its category.
Speaking about Michael as a member of the promotional team, Deena says, “Michael did it for his love of music and what Sol Republic stood for. It was a very interesting model where he wanted to be associated with what was cool, so we were very lucky to have Michael as part of the team.”
In Deena’s description of this success story, you’ll hear the key role an advisory team like TargetPath can have in the product research and development of a successful brand. It’s a strategy more brands will likely be adopting in the future.
When your product is your baby, it’s hard to hear how it might be uglyStartup founders often have a hard time seeing why consumers are not going to fall in love with their product idea in the same way they have. It’s their beautiful baby, but Deena points out that apart from hard work and strategic planning, the consumer is not going to adopt it.
Along that line, it’s easy to think that if the product could only be promoted effectively to a big retailer like Best Buy, everything else would work itself out. But the truth is that those big retailers are going to rightfully demand that the product is a quality product consumers will not only relate to but also like. That’s why it’s better to build a distribution channel strategy that can deliver the best product for the end consumer. Deena says, “If you jump ahead of that process too quickly, it, unfortunately, can be the downfall of your baby.”
Learn why good product and consumer research and strategic distribution can make or break even the most innovative consumer tech products, on this episode with Deena Ghazarian.
Kickstarter and Amazon are great sources of honest feedback for startupsThe tendency is to think that Kickstarter and Indiegogo are for startups, but there’s actually a great opportunity for established brands to use those platforms to get the feedback they need. With good feedback, they are able to iterate and adapt their products to consumer needs and demands. A company can learn whether or not customers will engage with the product story, what the price point should be, and how the product is going to fly long-term.
Amazon is a great model to utilize for product research and development as well. The reason is that the reviews given on products in the Amazon ecosystem are honest reviews. Nothing is held back, so companies can listen to that feedback and make changes as a result.
Deena points out how less commonly considered things, like packaging, can become focal-points for changes simply because of the consumer feedback received. She says, “They’ll tell you if you’re not doing anything to stand out. That’s really valuable feedback that’s hard to get because in most cases people are not thinking about the last 3 feet of the sale and how the consumer reacts to the products.”
Listen to the rest of this episode to hear Deena’s thoughts about the future of consumer tech as it relates to voice technology and handsfree implementations, health and wellness, and IOT implementation out of doors.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES, or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:50] How Deena Ghazarian got involved in consumer tech [3:53] Transitioning to Monster as director of sales [9:06] The role TargetPath plays in helping product creators become profitable [11:40] Amazon strategies TargetPath helps startups implement [14:10] Examples of companies TargetPath has served [17:30] Mistakes commonly made by hardware entrepreneurs [20:37] Using Kickstarter and Amazon to get initial feedback on consumer tech products [23:50] Consumer tech trends Deena is keeping her eye on [25:43] The future of TargetPath: Doubling down to serve world-changing startups [31:01] The best way for startups to work with TargetPathResources & People Mentioned
Replay TV Anthony Wood (CEO of ROKU) Monster Sol Republic Homedics Noel Lee Michael Phelps Best Buy Amazon Apple Kickstarter The Amazon Exclusive Group Consumer Technology Association Board of Industry Leaders Gary ShapiroConnect with Deena Ghazarian
TargetPathConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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New immigrants to the United States do not represent a threat to “American” jobs, they represent potential, and lots of it. Manan Mehta and the team at Unshackled Ventures believe that immigrant-founded startups are one of the most amazing sources of incredible innovations that can change the course of the country and impact the world for good. I invited Manan on the podcast to hear what is happening at Unshackled and was not disappointed to find that the way his VC company has been able to help new immigrant-led startups is more encouraging than I realized. You’ll be inspired and motivated by what you hear, so I invite you to listen.
The amazing talent and resources of this generation’s Ellis IslandFrom 1802 to 1954, Ellis Island was the gateway through which over 12 million immigrants came into the United States. For many non-native born Americans, it symbolizes the hope of new opportunity and the possibility of personal achievements they've only dreamed of before. Manan Mehta of Unshackled Ventures believes the Ellis Island of today is the American university system. The nations of the world have come to the United States seeking education, training, and a way to utilize their innate talents and intelligence. The United States is poised to benefit from this influx of competent, entrepreneurial bent individuals. In this conversation, you can hear the enthusiasm and delight in Manan’s voice as he describes the way Unshackled Ventures has been able to set many new immigrants on their way to startup success. It’s a great conversation I hope you’ll gain inspiration from again and again.
The idea of startups was born in the hearts of immigrantsNew immigrants to America come with a built-in entrepreneurial spirit. Think about it, every immigrant is willing to take the risk of leaving his/her home in hopes of building a new life in a strange land. THAT is the stuff entrepreneurs are made of, and is one of the reasons Manan Mehta and the team at Unshackled Ventures, a Venture Capital firm that backs immigrant-led startups has put such stock in immigrants in the first place. During our conversation, I asked Manan to share some of his most encouraging stories and he blew me away with his accounts of the innovation and drive the immigrant founders he works with possess. These amazing people are creating world-changing technologies you'll want to know about, so don’t miss their stories.
New immigrants have a powerful recipe for success: Long on ambition, short on things to loseIf you are not an immigrant you don’t really know what it’s like to come to a country like the United States with nothing but ambition and opportunity. It’s a dream come true, but a very hard road at the same time. Manan Mehta says the combination of being long on ambition and short on things to lose is exactly what spurs immigrant founders toward success. They are willing to work hard, learn their craft or area of expertise, and apply it in ways that are often unheard of in the industries they are in. That's how immigrants are disruptive in all the best ways. Find out how Unshackled Ventures is supporting and equipping new immigrant founders in tech, fashion, sports, grocery, logistics, and more on this episode.
When you are a first-time, no-name founder, your greatest advantage is going to be your grit. ~ Manan MehtaOnce a person has achieved success, traction and momentum are on their side. Rupert Murdoch and Sir Richard Branson are examples of entrepreneurs who no longer need to hustle in order to find open doors of opportunity. But those who are just starting out, who are unknown and inexperienced have to possess a determination that enables them to find and make the best use of the opportunities that are out there in the marketplace. That’s where Manan Mehta says that immigrants shine because sometimes all they have is a brilliant idea and lots of grit. It's that combination that enables them to stick it out until doors of opportunity open. His advice to immigrant founders in that position is simple: “The more you can capitalize your grit into humility and coachability, the faster you’re going to succeed."
Topics Featured In This Episode [1:47] How Manan went from marketing to running a Venture Capital firm [7:43] Why immigrants and veterans are an amazing source of talent and drive [15:38] How Unshackled Ventures has helped immigrants attain success [21:53] Identifying the amazing ideas and individuals who need VC support [29:00] 100% in terms of betting on the right people [32:19] Manan’s dream for Unshackled Ventures 10 to 20 years from now Resources & People Mentioned Prateek Joshi, founder of Pluto.ai Yojik Khasin Co-Founder of Togg Purva Gupta, Co-Founder of Lily Rupert Murdoch Greg Popovich Bill Belichick Phil Jackson Connect with Manan Mehta Unshackled Ventures Connect With Max Borges www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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Fear is one of the most pronounced and debilitating emotions human beings face. It holds us back in all kinds of scenarios, large and small - from saying “Hi” to a stranger to starting a business. Therefore, conquering fear is one of the most important skills anyone can learn and my guest on this episode, Scott Steinberg continually addresses the issue in almost everything he writes. On this episode of Unconventional Genius, you’ll hear Scott’s recommendations for beating fear, stepping into the unknown, and making a difference in the world.
The one primary difference between those who succeed and those who don’tScott Steinberg believes there is one thing that separates those who are successful from the people who aren’t: a failure to act. Those who succeed step out to try new things and overcome obstacles whereas those who don’t succeed are afraid of taking action. Whether these individuals fear failure, or success, or embarrassment, or something else - it’s clear that if their fear could be conquered, so could the obstacles that keep them from building something great. Scott says that you cannot allow fear to hold you back and that taking initiative is the key to overcoming it. Please, take the time to hear what this seasoned entrepreneur and innovator shares about conquering fear, on this episode.
The key to overcoming the fear of failure is to fail moreFailure is going to happen. It’s part of the way the world works and the process by which we human beings learn. With every failure comes the opportunity to learn: Why did our attempts not work? What can we try that might work next time? Is there a new way to approach the issue? With these things in mind, Scott Steinberg says we need to be failing fast, often, and efficiently - and in a way that you can constantly be bouncing back and learning from the failure. Listen to this episode to hear how Scott applies these principles and conquers failure.
Purposefully deviate from your normal path in order to find and conquer undetected fearsWe all have big fears that are obvious to us, but they are not the fears that typically derail us. It’s the smaller fears we often don’t even know about that demotivate us and keep us from moving forward. When I asked Scott how to handle those kinds of fears, he referred to a concept that his friend, David Perry pointed out to him: The first step is always the hardest. Overcoming fear is possible by keeping your radar up (trying to be aware of when the fear shows up) and by intentionally putting yourself into contexts that are outside what is normal for you. That one step enables you to slowly grow your tolerance in the areas where you are afraid. You’re taking the first step in a controlled manner that pushes you to conquer the fear instead of giving into it.
Anything you want to do can be done... and the barrier to entry is lower than everIn his book, “The Business Expert’s Guidebook,” Scott Steinberg points out that when it comes to starting a business, the barrier to entry is lower than ever. Stories abound of people who started a now-successful business on their kitchen table or over coffee at a local cafe. There are cost-effective and clever ways to get things off the ground without having to break the bank. I personally began my business without a penny and 15 years later have seen it grow to over $10 million in revenue, without borrowing any capital at all. It’s absolutely possible for you to do the same if you’re willing to take action and conquer your fear. It only takes time, energy, and a dedication to learn and grow.
Topics Featured In This Episode [0:05] The things you’ll learn from this conversation with Scott Steinberg [3:35] Major takeaways from Scott’s book “Make Change Work For You” [6:34] Why big fears are not as big a problem as small fears [9:26] How Scott came to write his book, “Millennial Marketing” [12:56] Overcoming the urge to over-inform prospects and customers [15:46] How millennials are fashioning their own MBA programs [21:06] Insights from “The Business Expert’s Guidebook” and “The Crowdfunding Bible” [26:32] What’s appropriate behavior in a new digital world? [31:58] Scott’s current work to equip entrepreneurs and businesses Resources & People Mentioned David Perry, founder of Gaikai Barbara Corcoran Shark Tank Connect with Scott Steinberg www.AKeynoteSpeaker.com Select Magazine www.TechPressroom.com Scott on Twitter: @AKeynoteSpeaker Tech Savvy Global - Scott’s company BOOK: The Crowdfunding Bible BOOK: Business Expert’s Guidebook BOOK: Make Change Work For You BOOK: Millennial Marketing BOOK: Netiquette Essentials Connect With Max Borges www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedIn -
As the founder of a Consumer Tech PR Agency, it may seem strange that I’m interviewing the founder of Powerful Yogurt, Carlos Ramirez. But there’s a method to my madness. I believe that the same business principles and lessons that Carlos learned in starting his company from scratch, marketing his products, and working with suppliers and distributors can be modified and applied to any industry. Even my area of specialization: Consumer Tech PR. That’s why I was eager to talk with him. Carlos’ story is amazing: born and raised in Venezuela, immigrating to the U.S., and starting a food product company from scratch with zero experience mark some of the chapters. Today his products are in over 10,000 retail stores nationwide. Do you see why I believe that Carlos has something to teach all of us,. no matter our industry? Please join me to hear the story of Carlos Ramirez, Founder of Powerful.
What does it take to start a food product company from scratch with zero experience?
Carlos Ramirez is what I consider to be an archetypical entrepreneur...and I’ve seen a lot of them in my work as founder of a Consumer Tech PR firm. Carlos has an innate drive to succeed that has manifested itself throughout the course of his life. From getting his family out of Venezuela and to the United States to starting and scaling Powerful Yogurt with absolutely no experience in the food industry, it’s evident that Carlos believes in himself and his ability to make his own path. During our conversation, I was repeatedly amazed at the obstacles Carlos faced in building Powerful, and more so by the innovative ways he overcame them. You’ll be inspired by the story that is his life - as well as by the success he’s found through perseverance and hard work. I invite you to listen.
When you have a good strategy, structure follows ~ Carlos Ramirez
As I spoke with Carlos Ramirez in this episode of Unconventional Genius, I was repeatedly astounded at his willingness to take on the challenge of creating and distributing new products he’d never even thought of before. At one point I asked him, “How did you know how to do that?’ His response went something like this… “You learn, you figure it out. When you have a good strategy, structure follows.” That begs the question, “What goes into the kind of strategy that enables a man from Venezuela to create a nationwide brand from scratch?” Carlos goes into the details on this episode, so take the time to listen.
2 slides into his investor pitch, he was told his idea was no good. Then everything changed
When Carlos Ramirez was doing one of his first pitches for Powerful Yogurt to an investor in New York (known as “Power Fuel Yogurt” at the time), he was no more than 2 slides into his pitch before the investor said he didn’t think the idea of protein-enhanced, performance yogurt was a good idea. But Carlos persisted in spite of the objections - and by the end of the meeting, the investor was all-in. How did that happen? Not because Carlos is especially persuasive. What he believes made the difference was his own level of belief, his own level of passion for what he was trying to create. The more he enthusiastically cast the vision, the easier it was for others to see it and jump on board. You’ll get the feel for the kind of enthusiasm I’m talking about as I introduce you to Carlos in this episode.
Powerful Yogurt was just the beginning. Carlos was willing to iterate and did it well
After striking a regional deal with Food Emporium, Carlos has his first foot in the door in the retail grocery world and Powerful Yogurt had its chance to succeed. After some fortuitous mentions by celebrities like Jay Leno and Conan O’Brien, the race was on. He figured out a way to do an end-run around the Whole-Foods buyer for the state of New York to get his products into local Whole Foods stores, was approached by Walmart and secured a 2000 store contract, and then the unthinkable happened: Walmart began pitching him product ideas - and he learned a new skill: iteration. Find out what it takes for a guy focused on one product type to pivot into other products that he knows nothing about, and pull it off in an amazing way. I invite you to hear the incredible story of Carlos Ramirez, Founder of Powerful Yogurt, on this episode of Unconventional Genius.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:23] The backstory of Carlos’ success: growing up in Venezuela, moving to the U.S. [8:02] An incredible optimism and belief that fueled Carlos in the initial stages [11:26] Working with Sergio Zyman and launching his company - from scratch [16:08] Raising money from friends and investors for a 2013 launch of the company [20:20] Bad press that is good press: Maximizing the exposure of a controversy [24:21] Acquiring the first customers through investors [32:01] Receiving a call from WalMart, negotiating the deal for 2000 stores [37:10] Making the pivot to provide powerful oatmeal as well as powerful yogurt [48:40] Aligning consumer needs with product possibilities in a variety of food typesResources & People Mentioned
Sergio Zyman BOOK: The End of Advertising As We Know It GNC Esquire Magazine The Today Show Conan O’Brien Anderson Cooper Jay Leno Chobani Yoplait Dannon Whole Foods Food Emporium Montel Williams WalMart Target Kroger Stop N Shop Giant Food Stores Glanbia Protein Suppliers Proctor and Gamble BOOK: The Innovator’s DilemmaConnect with Carlos Ramirez
https://powerful.co/Connect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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As the founder of a consumer technology PR agency, you can bet that I’m highly interested in the future of consumer electronics. That’s why I jumped at the opportunity to speak with my guest on this week’s edition of the Unconventional Genius podcast: Jim Sanduski, President of Sharp Home Electronics Company of America. Jim has been working in the Consumer Electronics Industry for more than 25 years.
Before taking on his current role, he was an executive with a handful of companies you may have heard of: Sony, Samsung, HP, and Panasonic. Jim has experienced some of the industry’s most transformative developments, such as the evolution of television from watching analog signals on heavy CRT screens, to HDTV, to marveling at today’s 4K (and soon, 8K!) displays. He’s seen the transition from VHS to DVD to BluRay, and from renting videos in stores, to downloading, then streaming them on devices of all sizes.
I can’t think of anyone better qualified to speak to the possibilities for the future of consumer electronics than Jim. I invite you to join me for this interesting conversation.
The future of consumer electronics isn’t only about gadgets, it’s about appliances
Jim and the team at Sharp aren’t only working on the microwaves and TVs of the future, they are focused on one of the industry’s newest areas of advancement: the kitchen.
The kitchen is evolving from a collection of stand-alone appliances to a connected experience where those appliances “talk” to one another. App and software-enabled appliances will soon be doing everything from filling out your grocery list automatically by scanning the contents of your fridge to starting dinner while you’re on your way home.
Jim says, “That type of functionality is still in the early stages, but it's definitely the future (of consumer electronics) and is quickly evolving. Today we take the connected TV for granted and one day we will think the same way about our connected kitchens.”
If that kind of non-DIY approach to cooking sounds as good to you as it does to me, you’ll want to hear Jim’s forecast of where the connected kitchen is headed, so be sure to listen to our conversation.
Startups are going to play a pivotal role in the future of consumer electronics
The tech startup community is going to play a key role in Sharp’s ability to lead the pack in the race to build the connected kitchen, that's according to Sharp’s President, Jim Sanduski. His comment reminded me of my recent conversation with another Jim - Jim Stengel, author of the excellent new business book “Unleashing the Innovators: How Mature Companies Find New Life with Startups.” Stengel called it a playbook for established enterprises on how to use startups to change their cultures for the positives and avoid what he calls the “Innovator’s Dilemma.”
That’s exactly what Sharp is doing under Jim Sandusky’s leadership. For example, Sharp recently announced it is working with SideChef, a startup that has developed an award-winning cooking app that will create the mobile application and custom recipe content for all of Sharp's future internet-enabled cooking appliances. The first product will be a connected version of Sharp's SuperSteam+™ Convection Oven, scheduled for release in Fall 2018.
“The days of selling stand-alone products is clearly in decline,” he adds. “Today is all about what I call ‘solution selling.’ If you’re an entrepreneur developing hardware you must figure out how to merge your product with software to create a compelling consumer experience. In fact, try to take that a step further by creating a recurring revenue stream so you're not solely dependent on selling new hardware, but you in effect create a services business.”
Jim’s got lots of insights like this about where the consumer electronics industry is headed, so if you’re involved in a tech startup you’ll want to hear what he’s got to say on this episode.
Jim Sanduski’s advice to those starting out in the consumer electronics industry
If someone like Jim Sanduski were to give you advice about how to begin your career in the consumer electronics industry, you’d be wise to heed what he has to say. Here’s a sampling of the advice he shared in this conversation:
Work with industry standards instead of trying to create your own. Adopting industry standards makes it more convenient and compelling for your customer to use your product. Be humble, be kind, even when you reach the higher levels of the org chart. Always consider that business success is about ‘we’, not ‘I.’ Your colleagues and team members will make you look good. Don't be a complainer. If you are not happy about something, be part of the solution. Manage expectations by under promising and over delivering. That’s how you will build your reputation throughout the company and the industry. Become comfortable with presenting in front of people, whether to your team in a conference room, or delivering a CES keynote address.Don’t miss this great episode. Jim’s generosity with his time will reap dividends in yours if you will apply what he shares.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES, or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:39] Max’ intro to Jim Sanduski, a 25+-year veteran of the consumer electronics industry [2:57] An overview of the current state of the consumer electronics industry [4:07] The future of big box consumer electronics VS online sales [7:50] How Sharp is going about remaining relevant in the modern day consumer experience [10:21] Sharp’s new partnership to bridge the last 3 feet in the kitchen [13:02] Jim’s advice to entrepreneurs seeking to establish their own hardware company [19:10] The scrappy attitude Jim appreciates in startups today [23:02] Is Amazon’s dominance in the consumer / retail experience a good thing? [25:51] The reasons Jim doesn’t believe the large screen TV is going way [35:11] Accomplishments Jim has made that he’s most proud of [36:58] Career advice for those just getting started [44:05] Jim’s personal obligation to support Table to TableResources & People Mentioned
Table to Table Anti Defamation League Harvard University Pokemon Go Jim Stengel, author of Grow and Unleashing the Innovators SideChef Jeff Bezos Alexa Skills InstantPot Panasonic Jeffrey Katzenberg Dealer Scope Business Insider Engadget Toastmasters Junior Achievement Sony Hewlett PackardConnect with Jim Sanduski
Sharp Home ElectronicsConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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The tips you’ll learn about CES on this episode of Unconventional Genius come straight from the top. Gary Shapiro, CEO of The Consumer Technology Association, the organization that puts on CES, and Jeff Joseph, the Senior Vice President for the CTA are among the insiders featured who will provide tips on how to make the most of CES attendance. You’ll learn how to audition for Shark Tank while attending CES, how to get the media’s attention, how to get the best booth location, how to make use of your own personal and free research assistant, how to tap into a network of successful business builders, and how to get a $40K membership to CTA for $95. In light of all that, can you understand why this episode is a “must listen?”
Showcase your startup at CES by participating in Eureka ParkIf you’ve got a new technology or innovation just waiting to be funded or discovered, this CES secret is worth more than the time it will take you to listen to this episode. Listen as Gary Shapiro describes how startups can take full advantage of more than 3,500 financial professionals, 7,000 members of the media, key investors and suppliers all being in one place at one time - Eureka Park - the place for startups to be seen at CES. It’s the opportunity to showcase what you’ve accomplished, make key connections, and possibly even find funding for your next steps. In all my work as a consumer tech PR consultant I’ve seen very few opportunities like this, so be sure you listen to find out all the details.
Successful founders often want to give back. Here’s how you can make the most of a great opportunityFounders of successful tech companies and businesses know the hard knocks and struggles required for any business to succeed. That makes them grateful for their own success and super eager to help those who are coming along behind them. The Consumer Technology Association has created a way for experienced business and technology mentors to come alongside new or struggling technology companies to offer advice and so much more. In this episode, you can learn how to get involved in the CTS mentorship program so that you can learn from the best in the business.
You can even audition for Shark Tank at CESShark Tank is one of the most entertaining shows to come along in quite a while, and the opportunities tech companies can enjoy from being on the show are enormous. If you make plans to attend CES you shouldn't miss the opportunity to go to the Shark Tank Open Call Auditions. You can profile your company and story for consideration on the show. Who knows? You may get the chance to show your innovative ideas to people all around the world by being featured on Shark Tank! Find out more about the auditions by listening to this episode.
3 ways to get your tech company or products noticedIf you are a member of the Consumer Technology Association, there are 3 powerful ways you can apply to have your products or tech featured during the CES events and all year long. The first is by being profiled on CES TV. It’s a great way to be front and center for everyone to see. You could also apply to be considered for the CTA Broadcast Tours. Throughout the year, CTA showcases member products, coordinating their promotions with current events or holidays. Imagine the exposure if CTA highlighted your water sports tech product during the early months of summer! There is one more amazing opportunity highlighted in this episode and you can discover it by listening!
Topics Featured In This Episode
[0:09] Tips you can learn from this episode about making the most of CES [2:26] Gary Shapiro shares why small companies get extra care at CES [4:22] Why all startups need to be part of Eureka Park and how to get media attention [7:18] Taking advantage of the CTS mentorship program [8:12] Making the most of exhibit space, meeting room space, and hospitality suites [11:13] Big news: Live Shark Tank auditions at CES [13:10] Free consumer and marketing research you can take advantage of [16:43] Broadcast tours the CTA does to feature members [18:50] 3 ways to get noticed at CES - CES TV, Broadcast Tours, Product highlights [21:43] How to maximize coverage of your brand during the show [24:59] Why you should not be shy about reaching out to CTA staffResources & People Mentioned
Consumer Technology Association Eureka Park The Shark Tank Open Call Auditions at CES Turner Broadcasting Sports Innovation Labs info(at)CTA.tech - get your tech research info (must be a CTA member) Submit to be included in the CTA broadcaster tourConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
$95 Membership Link: https://www.cta.tech/Membership/Membership-Benefits/Startup-Membership.aspx Mentorship Program Link: https://www.cta.tech/cta/media/Membership/PDFs/Mentor-Program-Guidelines.pdf Audition for Shark Tank at CES: https://www.ces.tech/Events-Programs/Events/2018/Shark-Tank-Open-Call.aspx Submission form to be featured in a Broadcast Media Tour: https://www.cta.tech/News/Promotional-Opportunities.aspx Email the CTA library: [email protected] CES Unveiled Las Vegas: https://www.ces.tech/Events-Programs/CES-Unveiled/CES-Unveiled-Las-Vegas Pepcom: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/567464_eba44eb971494ae080b4ae785aaef53f.pdf ShowStoppers: http://www.showstoppers.com/ces2018/
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When it comes to technological innovation, no company has taken the bull by the horns better than Sony. Though Sony’s President and COO Mike Fasulo admits there have been seasons when the company did not do the best job at innovating, course corrections have been made and Sony is once again near the front of the pack.
My wide-ranging conversation with Mike on this episode demonstrates how Sony is continually working to stay ahead of the technological changes that are happening all around us and how their focus on user experience and entertainment keep them headed in the right direction - innovating as they go.
I find Mike to be a fascinating, humble, and very generous leader in the tech industry and trust you will too. I invite you to listen to this episode of Unconventional Genius.
Sales is an outcome. The focus needs to be on innovation
One of the concepts I like to explore in these conversations is the idea of focus. I’ve learned to ask the tech leaders I interview a question that gets to the heart of their beliefs on the subject. In this conversation, I asked Mike, “If you could only focus on one thing at Sony, what would it be?” His answer was very insightful.
“Sales is an outcome. I think the focus is really on innovation, and innovation through products. You know, our products are critically important, but also innovation through talent and people. How do we tap into the diversity and get the most out of our employees, which brings innovation to reality?”
That makes sense to me, and the balance Mike describes between product innovation and fostering the creativity and diversity of the people behind that innovation is crucial. Listen to our conversation to hear more of the insights Mike shares about how to lead a team toward technological innovations that can fuel a consumer tech company’s growth, on this episode.
If we can get a customer to say, “Wow!” - we’ve accomplished our goal
It’s important for leaders of consumer tech companies to understand that the customer’s experience is the final arbiter of what’s important. Mike says that at Sony, everything they do is tested against the customer’s experience. He cites Kaz Harai, Global CEO of Sony as saying, “If I’m the end user, explain to me why I should care,” and “It’s not the last mile or the last foot, it’s the last inch between Sony and someone’s emotional side. How do you get to that last inch?”
Mike says that in the end, it really comes down to entertainment experiences for the end user, and Sony is focused on making every technological innovation a direct path to that emotional connection the customer experiences while using the product. Find out how Mike is leading his team to accomplish that, on this episode.
13 roles over 33 years at the same company: it provides differentiation and confidence
When Mike told me he’s been with Sony for 33 years, I had to ask him to repeat himself. Spending more than three decades at one company in a volatile industry that is driven by fickle consumers and the constant development of new technologies is almost unheard of. He began his career in the finance department and has also worked in a number of other departments, including sales, marketing, and operations.
“I’ve had no less than 13 jobs at the company, so while the Sony name always stayed the same, it was almost like going to 13 different companies and learning different things,” he said. “Some say I just can't keep a job, but I look at it like I'm well-rounded.”
Mike's experience at Sony is a great demonstration of both the benefits of stability in a career trajectory and the opportunities that emerge along the way for those who are ready to seize them.
Career advice from Mike Fasulo of Sony: If you don’t enjoy what you do, look for something else to do
“You have to go where your passions are,” Mike insisted when I asked him for advice to young people who are considering their career path. “We're products, and I realize that sounds a bit cold, but we need differentiators to be successful and realize our potential. You get that through education and experience.”
That’s a statement that comes from Mike’s own experience, having filled 13 different roles within Sony during his 33 years there. He says it’s made him a different sort of “product” than other people, which is part of what sets him apart. But in his mind, all of that differentiation needs to be focused on finding fulfillment and a way to have a positive impact.
“We work a lot of our living hours and if you don't enjoy what you do and you're not learning and growing, look for something else to do. Life is too short.”
This conversation is well worth the time it will take you to listen, so I encourage you to set aside a portion of your day to hear what Mike has to share. Over 33 years at one company yields a lot of great insights.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES, or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[1:58] What to expect from Sony in the future [4:31] Technological innovation at Sony: How they partner and stay on the cutting edge [6:44] The one thing Mike would focus on to drive growth (if he could only focus on one) [9:33] Is there a brand ideal that the Sony team considers in product development? [11:33] Considering user preferences and experience in product development [13:23] Using passion and the ability to listen to stay ahead of the technological curve [15:01] How Mike got started with Sony and has built a career to be proud of [17:28] Mike’s advice for young people as they survey their career path [22:18] A personally important thing Mike would like to say to the worldResources & People Mentioned
Sony’s Aibo BOOK: The Innovator’s Dilemma Google Amazon Apple Microsoft Kazuo Harai The Make a Wish Foundation The Boys and Girls Club of AmericaConnect with Mike Fasulo
SonyConnect With Max Borges
www.MaxBorgesAgency.com LinkedInSubscribe to Unconventional Genius on
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While it seems like the key to becoming a successful entrepreneur is having a great idea, you also have to have money. But If you’ve got a winning idea, getting financing should take care of itself, right? As you’ll find out during my conversation with Ross Baird, Founder and President of Village Capital, and author of the book “The Innovation Blindspot: Why We Back the Wrong Ideas and What to Do About It," it is not always that simple.
In order to raise capital, you have to be able to connect with investors. And that means avoiding innovation blind spots that are common with venture capitalists. Ross Baird wants to help investors see the vast opportunities available outside of their typical, limited scope.
In this episode, Ross sits down with me to discuss his new book and to share how he’s making a lasting impact by helping investors eliminate some of those innovation blind spots in their approach to Venture Capitalism. You don’t want to miss this conversation.
How innovation blind spots create limited opportunities for entrepreneurs
As I was talking with Ross, I found myself thinking back more than 10 years ago to when I founded the Max Borges Agency. I had some reservations about growing a consumer tech PR agency in Miami because our offices were not in Silicon Valley or New York City. Ross says that's a concern too many entrepreneurs face because of the innovation blind spots many investors have.
"80 percent of venture capital goes to New York, California, and Massachusetts," he says.. "Professional investors have trained their minds to think good ideas only come out of a few locations and industries. We think in society that resources flow to their best and most productive uses.”
As I discovered in our conversation, that is not always the case. Be sure to listen as Ross explains why this is a huge problem for entrepreneurship.
Investing should be more like college sports recruiting
Ross shared with me that he believes too many investors approach their jobs like stock pickers - they're only looking for the next sure thing based on historical trends.
This type of innovation blind spot causes many investors to miss out on star entrepreneurs that could really make an impact. He thinks they should instead model their approaches after college basketball and football coaches."If you go to any neighborhood anywhere in the U.S., whether it's rural North Dakota or inner-city L.A., if there's are kids with the potential to be an athlete. That’s why by the time they are ten years old, college recruiters know their names. There's a multi-billion-dollar industrial recruiting complex to discover athletes. Investors need to spend the same amount of time investing in their pipelines," says Ross.
Hear about this unique approach to investing and how Ross is applying it to his own business in this week’s episode.
3 qualities of successful entrepreneurs
Ross and his colleagues are working to eliminate innovation blind spots and widen the narrow lens that professional investors use to identify entrepreneurs. He does not want location, education, or economic backgrounds to disqualify anyone with a great idea from pursuing his or her dreams. He shares with me three qualities common to most successful entrepreneurs that he recommends anyone thinking of starting a business should embrace. These three characteristics can help entrepreneurs better position themselves for investment and success. Be sure to listen to our conversation to hear about these three unique characteristics.
Removing innovation blind spots opens up a world of new possibilities
The Max Borges Agency is a consumer tech PR agency, but we do not limit ourselves to partnering only with companies based in the Valley. We know we would be shutting ourselves out of the opportunity to work with some amazing companies.
That's the same line of thinking Ross had when he founded Village Capital almost ten years ago. Ross Baird is leading Village Capital to find and invest in great entrepreneurs with great ideas who most investors are not paying enough (or any) attention to. And he’s trying to help other investors identify and reduce their innovation blind spots so that a more diverse group of entrepreneurs have a shot at success.
Hear all about this and more during our conversation on this week’s episode of Unconventional Genius.
If you are with a consumer technology company planning to launch a new product at CES, or are even looking ahead to CES 2019, the Max Borges Agency can help you succeed. To learn more, check out: www.maxborgesagency.com.
Topics Featured In This Episode
[3:11] Ross Baird’s accomplishments and the genesis of Village Capital [5:20] The blind spots of the current venture capital investing culture [10:19] What are the personality traits of a successful entrepreneur [12:27] How Village Capital chooses businesses to invest in and examples of success [16:48] Why Ross Baird’s wrote his book “The Innovation Blindspot” [20:44] Village Capital’s commitment to finding entrepreneurs outside the mainstream [23:26] Ways venture capitalists should change their approach to investing [27:37] The future of Village Capital and how Ross Baird envisions its ongoing impactResources & People Mentioned
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